This course will focus on the competing goals of the White House communications operations and the White House press corps, their conflicting agendas, and the strategies both sides use to accomplish their goals.

Students will learn about the organizational structure of the White House communications operation, including the role of the press secretary and other key White House players. We will study the range of White House communications tools, and learn how journalists try to get beyond the White House "spin" in their reporting. We'll also explore how various types of media cover the presidency.

Particular attention will be paid to how coverage of the White House has changed over time, and how it is likely to change in the future.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites: Permission of the associate dean required.

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